Escambia County, FL

06/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/25/2024 07:14

Waterfront Rescue Mission Opens Doors as Cooling Center Tuesday, June 25

With temperatures forecasted to reach or exceed 105 degrees on Tuesday, June 25, Waterfront Rescue Mission will implement its Extreme Heat Cooling Center policy to provide relief and protection for those in need from 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Escambia County Emergency Management will collaborate with Waterfront Rescue Mission to help individuals in need find shelter during the extreme heat.

Policy Adaptations for Extreme Heat:

To ensure the safety of individuals during periods of extreme heat, Waterfront Rescue Mission will temporarily suspend some of its normal operational guidelines. These changes are designed to accommodate those seeking shelter from dangerously high temperatures.

Definition of Extreme Heat:

  • Extreme Heat is defined as when the actual temperature or heat index is forecasted to reach 105 degrees or above.

Changes in Operating Procedures:

  • Day Services, which normally operate from 8 am. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday and reopen at 4 p.m. for Overnight Shelter, will have extended hours. During extreme heat, the Mission will not close at 3 p.m. Anyone present will be allowed to stay inside.
  • During extreme heat, individuals seeking shelter are welcome to come inside the Mission during the day and rest in designated air-conditioned areas.
  • Generous supplies of drinking water will be available, in addition to the normal services provided.
  • Waterfront Rescue Mission will collaborate with Escambia County Emergency Management services and other community partners to find overnight shelter for women, and individuals who cannot stay at Waterfront or choose not to. Those who prefer other accommodations will still be welcome to return to Waterfront during the day.
  • If overnight shelter cannot be found for women outside of Waterfront, we will make accommodations in a secure location for them to stay at the Mission.
  • Overnight capacity will not be limited to the number of beds and mats available. Once all beds and mats have been assigned, blankets and pillows will be issued, and safe, suitable sleeping locations will be designated.

Waterfront Rescue Mission is dedicated to providing a safe and cool environment for those in need during this extreme weather event. Waterfront urges anyone in need of shelter to come to the Mission and take advantage of its services.

For more information, please contact Waterfront Rescue Mission at [email protected] or visit waterfrontmission.org.